Join author Marc Vassallo to explore the design of small, urban houses and backyard ADUs as a smart response to two demographic trends: the shrinking size of households and the growing popularity of city living – followed by a group conversation on the pros and cons of small city houses.
Smaller city houses (400 sq. ft. to 1,800 sq. ft.) promote walkability, sustainability, and conviviality. They make sense for single people, young couples, small families, empty-nesters, and (with ADUs) extended family members. We will draw design lessons from a dozen innovative houses from across the US and Canada, including infill projects, remodeled houses, and ADUs, with special attention to solutions for odd lots, extremely narrow sites, and mixed-use areas. We’ll examine historical precedents, address challenges inherent in compact spaces and tight quarters, and debate the pros and cons of density. Along with projects that reach the “missing middle” of the urban real estate market, we’ll look at two that directly address equity and affordability.
After his slide talk, Vassallo will facilitate a group conversation on the pros and cons of small city houses with respect to such issues as affordability, density, and inclusion. Each attendee will receive a complimentary copy of the book, courtesy of Schultz Miller.